Journal of pediatric orthopedics
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Low Sensitivity of Neurological Examination, Curve Laterality, and Thoracic Kyphosis for Detecting Chiari I Malformation and Syrinx in Operative Pediatric Scoliosis

Sep 22, 2026

The authors investigate the sensitivity of neurological examinations, curve laterality, and thoracic kyphosis in detecting Chiari malformation type I (CM1) and syrinx in pediatric patients undergoing surgery for scoliosis. They found that these screening criteria have relatively low sensitivity, with a significant proportion of patients presenting with normal neurological exams and other typical metrics. The findings suggest that surgeons should be cautious in relying solely on these indicators when deciding on preoperative MRI for scoliosis surgery.

A Novel Flexor Tendon Reconstruction Technique in Children: A Potential Solution for a Rare Problem

Sep 21, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the biomechanical properties of a novel palmaris longus-flexor digitorum profundus-anchor (PL-FDP-A) construct for distal tendon graft fixation in pediatric 2-stage flexor tendon reconstruction. Their findings indicate that this technique provides adequate stability for early active mobilization, with failure primarily occurring through anchor pullout. The results suggest that the PL-FDP-A construct could be a viable solution for the challenges associated with tendon fixation in children.

Spinal Fusion in Prader-Willi Syndrome: Early Radiographic Outcomes and Complications With a Subset Analysis of Two-year Follow-up in a Multicenter Cohort

Sep 21, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the early radiographic outcomes and complications associated with spinal fusion in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), a population known for a high incidence of scoliosis and surgical challenges. Their findings indicate that while spinal fusion leads to significant and durable correction of spinal deformities, it is also associated with a notable risk of perioperative complications and unplanned return to the operating room, particularly in patients with higher body mass index. This underscores the necessity for tailored risk assessment and perioperative management in this vulnerable group.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Concomitant Lateral Condyle and Medial Epicondyle Fractures With Elbow Dislocation in Children

Sep 18, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of concomitant lateral condyle and medial epicondyle fractures with elbow dislocation in pediatric patients, a rare condition known as bicondylar fracture-dislocation of the elbow (BiCFDE). The study found that, despite the complexity of these injuries, surgical intervention typically leads to favorable outcomes, with most patients achieving excellent recovery. The authors also noted differences in injury mechanisms between subgroups, highlighting the importance of tailoring surgical approaches based on these mechanisms.

Is Hemiepiphysiodesis Enough? Evaluating Growth Modulation in Juvenile Hallux Valgus

Sep 18, 2026

This study investigates the effectiveness of lateral first metatarsal hemiepiphysiodesis as a growth modulation technique for treating juvenile hallux valgus (JHV) in skeletally immature patients. The authors found that while the procedure resulted in modest radiographic improvements, a significant proportion of patients (80%) still exhibited residual deformity, and nearly one-third required subsequent corrective osteotomies. The findings suggest that hemiepiphysiodesis may serve as a temporary solution but does not eliminate the need for further surgical intervention.

Patient-reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Score Analysis in Diagnosis and Treatment Evaluation of Pediatric Disc Herniation Patients: A Preliminary Study

Sep 18, 2026

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores in assessing pain and mobility in pediatric patients with disc herniation, comparing outcomes between non-operative and surgical treatments. The findings indicate that while surgical patients present with worse baseline scores, they experience greater improvements in mobility post-surgery, ultimately achieving comparable outcomes to those managed non-operatively. The study supports the use of PROMIS scores as a valuable tool for quantifying symptom burden and treatment response in this population.

Intramedullary Nailing Following Tibia Lengthening With External Fixator in Fibular Hemimelia Reduces the Risk of Fractures

Sep 18, 2026

The authors aimed to determine whether prophylactic intramedullary nailing following tibial lengthening with an external fixator reduces the risk of fractures in patients with fibular hemimelia. Their study found that no fractures occurred in the group that received intramedullary nailing, while 25% of the non-nailing group experienced fractures, indicating that nailing significantly lowers fracture risk without increasing infection rates.

International Delphi Consensus on the Diagnosis and Management of Septic Arthritis of the Hip in Prewalking Children

Sep 17, 2026

This study aimed to establish expert consensus on the diagnosis and management of septic arthritis of the hip in prewalking children, addressing the variability in clinical practices and the lack of high-quality evidence. Using a modified Delphi methodology, the authors developed and refined 20 statements, ultimately achieving consensus on key principles such as the importance of specific clinical signs, preferred surgical approaches, and guidelines for antibiotic duration. The findings provide a practical framework for clinical decision-making while highlighting areas for future research.

Concordance and Discordance of Intraoperative Nerve Root Findings in Brachial Plexus Birth Injury

Sep 17, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the concordance between preoperative injury classification and intraoperative nerve root findings in infants with brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI), as well as to explore the impact of Horner syndrome on these assessments. They found substantial agreement overall, but noted significant discordance, particularly in classifying injuries involving the C7 and C8 roots. The study suggests that a focused assessment of the C8 nerve root is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment, and that Horner syndrome may serve as a marker of injury severity rather than a definitive indicator of global injury.

Reoperations After Soft Tissue Release for Spastic Hip Displacement: Which One Matters More-Migration Percentage, Acetabular Index, or Motor Function?

Sep 17, 2026

The authors aimed to identify predictors of reoperation after soft tissue release (STR) for hip displacement in patients with cerebral palsy, specifically comparing the significance of migration percentage (MP), acetabular index (AI), and motor function. Their findings revealed that a higher preoperative AI was a more reliable predictor of reoperation than MP, suggesting that AI should be prioritized in preoperative decision-making for these patients.